Why Choose Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread?

This cheddar cheese bread is an irresistible combination of rich, savory flavors and a soft, doughy texture. The addition of garlic and fresh herbs enhances the cheese, making the bread flavorful without being overwhelming. Cheddar cheese brings a sharp, tangy taste, while mozzarella adds melt-in-your-mouth creaminess. The Parmesan brings an extra layer of depth and saltiness. The fluffy dough rises perfectly, creating a light, airy texture that’s perfect for soaking up soups or dipping in sauces.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity—using just a few ingredients, you can create a bread that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. The dough is easy to work with, and the process is manageable, even for beginner bakers. The result is a homemade bread that’s aromatic, cheesy, and perfect for any occasion.

Key Ingredients and Flavor Profile

The flavor profile of Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread is rich, savory, and cheesy. Let’s break down the key ingredients:

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is the star of this bread. Its sharp, tangy flavor makes it stand out, while its melting quality creates pockets of gooey, cheesy goodness throughout the bread.

• Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella cheese adds creaminess and smooth texture, complementing the cheddar’s tanginess.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty flavor to the bread, adding another layer of depth.

• Garlic: Grated garlic infuses the dough and cheese with a fragrant, savory aroma, enhancing the overall flavor.

• Italian Herbs: A combination of sage, oregano, basil, and thyme creates a fragrant, herbal backbone to the bread. These herbs complement the richness of the cheeses and garlic beautifully.

• Honey: A touch of honey helps activate the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to balance the savory flavors of the bread.

• Milk and Eggs: Warm milk is used to activate the yeast and create a soft dough, while eggs help enrich the dough, giving it a tender texture.

How to Make Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

Making this cheddar cheese bread is a straightforward process. Here’s how to bring this delicious bread to life:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm milk, yeast, and honey. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This activates the yeast and ensures it’s ready to help the dough rise.

2. Prepare the Dough:
   To the yeast mixture, add eggs, 3 ½ cups flour, and kosher salt. Using a dough hook, mix on medium speed for 4-5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add the remaining ½ cup of flour gradually until it reaches the right consistency. The dough should be soft and slightly tacky.

3. First Rise:
   Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until the dough has doubled in size.

4. Prepare the Filling:
   In a separate bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, and grated garlic. Mix everything together so the ingredients are evenly distributed.

5. Shape the Bread:
   After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle. Sprinkle the cheese and herb mixture evenly over the dough. Then, roll the dough into a log, pinching the edges to seal.

6. Twist the Dough:
   Cut the dough log in half vertically, exposing the cheese and herbs inside. Twist the two pieces together, creating a spiral shape. Once twisted, coil the dough into a circle and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

7. Second Rise:
   Cover the shaped dough with a kitchen towel and let it rise for 15-30 minutes, or until puffy.

8. Preheat the Oven:
   While the dough is rising, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

9. Bake the Bread:
   Once the second rise is complete, bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The bread should have a beautiful, crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy interior.

10. Serve:
    Once baked, let the bread cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness!

Serving Suggestions

This Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread is the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes:

• With Soup: Serve it with a hearty soup like tomato soup, butternut squash soup, or minestrone. The bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the flavors.

• With Pasta: Pair this bread with classic pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna. The cheesy, garlic-infused bread complements the rich, savory flavors of pasta sauces.

• On Its Own: Enjoy this bread fresh out of the oven on its own or with a side of butter or olive oil for dipping.

• With Salad: Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. The richness of the bread balances the lightness of the salad.

Nutritional Profile of Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread

Each serving of Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread contains approximately 263 calories, making it a satisfying yet moderate option for a side dish. Here’s a breakdown of the macronutrients:

• Fat: Each serving contains 12 grams of fat, providing richness and flavor, with a mix of healthy fats from the cheese and butter.

• Carbohydrates: The bread has 28 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the flour. This gives it the energy you need to fuel your day.

• Protein: Each serving provides 12 grams of protein, thanks to the cheese and eggs in the dough, making it a good source of protein.

• Sodium: The bread contains 510 mg of sodium, primarily from the cheeses and salt. If you’re concerned about sodium intake, you can adjust the salt level.

• Fiber: With 1 gram of fiber, this bread offers some digestive benefits, though it’s not a high source of fiber.

Customization Options

This bread recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes:

• Add More Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary, parsley, or thyme for additional flavor.

• Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses like Gouda, Fontina, or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.

• Make It Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.

• Gluten-Free Option: You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this bread gluten-free.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Soft Garlic Herb Cheddar Cheese Bread is the perfect savory addition to any meal. With its soft, fluffy texture and rich, cheesy flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite. Whether you serve it alongside soups, pasta, or salads, or simply enjoy it on its own, this bread will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. The combination of garlic, herbs, and three types of cheese makes it a savory treat that everyone will love.